Solair Retractable Awnings

More and more, homeowners are looking for ways to expand their living space. One of the first places they turn to is their patio or deck.

While this outdoor area offers many advantages, it does have one big drawback—the BLAZING SUN! Between the hours of 10a.m.-5p.m. the patio area is so hot that is virtually unusable.

To remedy this problem homeowners can add shade systems that range from a common patio umbrella or permanent roof to the increasingly popular manual or motorized retractable awnings.

Q: What are the differences between a retractable awning and a patio or deck umbrella?

A: An umbrella shades a very small area and must be operated manually. It also is highly susceptible to wind damage. An awning, on the other hand, is more durable and can be equipped with features such as remote controls and automatic wind sensors. Most importantly, an awning can cover a large area which gives you a much larger shady area for entertaining, playing with the kids or simply relaxing.

A: Retractable awnings make more sense for homeowners who are looking to extend their living area, yet maintain flexibility. Thanks to its spring-loaded arms, a Solair® awning can be extended or retracted to the length you want, so you are in complete control to enjoy the sun or shade whenever you want. Permanent structures give you no flexibility or freedom.

Q: Does a Solair® awning really make it cooler on my deck or patio?

A: YES! Your Solair® awning can reduce heat gain in your home by as much as 77% and can lower your indoor temperature by as much as 15 degrees. By lowering the temperature, you lower air conditioning usage and your energy bill.

Q: What kind of fabric is on a Solair awning?

A: Solair® awnings use Sunbrella fabrics – the industry leader in durability and beauty. These high-grade materials have the color embedded in every fiber, ensuring that they won’t significantly fade over time.

Q: Does the fabric color I choose affect how hot it is under my awning?

A: While color choice has some slight impact, the fabric itself has the most impact on heating. Because the Sunbrella awning fabric is woven, air is allowed to circulate through the fabric instead of building up under the awning, which also keeps the temperature down.

Q: Does my Solair awning come with a warranty?

A: Of Course! We stand by our retractable awnings with one of the most generous warranties in the industry. The Solair® PS2000 comes with a 5 year warranty, while the Solair® PS5000 offers a 10 year warranty. All Sunbrella fabrics have a 10 year warranty against any fading, staining or mildew.

Q: What happens when it rains?

A: Solair® retractable awnings are designed to provide protection from the sun’s harsh rays. Your Solair awning can be used during light rains with proper unit pitch. In heavy rains or wind, your Solair awning must be retracted to keep water from “pooling” on the fabric and causing irreversible damage.

Q: How much wind can an awning handle?

A: Light winds of less than 5 mph should not harm your awning. To prevent wind damage, it’s best to retract the awning before wind speeds reach the point of causing the awning to sway side to side or up and down. You may want to consider a Solair®retractable awning model with an optional automatic wind sensor that automatically retracts the awning when stronger winds are detected.